A wildfire that spread across Tafelberg Road on Sunday, March 15 has resulted in South African National Parks (SANParks) making the decision to suspend all mountain biking and hiking activities along the Lion’s Head and Glen footpaths on Table Mountain. This will be instated until further notice.
SANParks has requested for residents to exercise extreme caution during the remainder of fire season, as approximately 60 hectares of vegetation was destroyed during Sunday’s blaze. An unknown number of apartments and cars were also left damaged by the fire, and seven firefighters are being treated in hospital after battling the raging blaze.
The cause and origin of the fire is still being investigated, and firefighters’ efforts to douse it were hampered by strong winds.
“Residences and witnesses have come forward with video footage and other information that suggests that the fire was actively started by somebody and a case has been laid with the SAPS,” said City of Cape Town Mayco Member for Safety and Security JP Smith to News24.
On Monday, March 16 more than 100 firefighters remained on the scene along with Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS) to monitor the area and carry out mop-up operations.
“Please be advised that entire Lion’s Head and the Glen footpaths vicinity has been closed. No hiking or mountain biking activities is permitted in these areas,” SANParks spokesperson, Lauren Clayton said in a statement.